Wines Finger Lakes (New York) Weis Vineyards - Gewurtztraminer - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Weis Vineyards' 2023 Cuvée Gewürztraminer from the Finger Lakes AVA is a fine example of the expressive style that this aromatic grape can achieve in the cool-climate soils of New York State. This dry white wine showcases the distinctive personality of Gewürztraminer: expect lively, perfumed notes of lychee, rose petal, and ripe peach accented by hints of ginger and spice. The 2023 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, preserving natural acidity while allowing optimal phenolic ripeness. The Finger Lakes' glacial soils lend the wine a subtle mineral edge, and careful vinification with stainless steel tanks ensures a crisp, clean finish while highlighting the grape’s primary aromas.

Finger Lakes is the USA’s preeminent cool-climate wine region, prized for its deep, glacial lakes that help moderate temperatures and protect vines from dramatic swings. The region’s relatively high latitude and sloping vineyard sites favor aromatic white varieties such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer. The soils here, formed over millennia by glacial movement, are a mix of shales, gravel, and clay, enabling excellent drainage while adding complexity to the wines. The local wine culture draws inspiration from both German and Alsatian traditions, a heritage reflected in the careful crafting of aromatic whites.

For food pairings, this dry Gewürztraminer shines with richly spiced dishes that complement its aromatic intensity. Think Thai or Vietnamese cuisine — lemongrass chicken, ginger pork, or shrimp curries work beautifully. Closer to the region, it pairs well with spice-rubbed roast chicken or a tangy chèvre from a local dairy. Asian-inspired salads or mildly spicy sushi also bring out the best in this style.

Serve this wine well chilled, ideally at a temperature of 8-10°C. Pour it into medium-sized white wine glasses to accentuate the expressive bouquet. Given its youthful vibrancy, enjoy it within a couple of years to capture its aromatic freshness and lively acidity.